Richmond Hill Players has received statewide recognition for its contributions to community theatre.

The Illinois Theatre Association honored Richmond Hill Players with its 2026 Award of Excellence in Community Theatre during the association’s Annual Members Celebration on Aug. 29 at Jen’s Guesthouse in Willow Springs.

Richmond Hill Players President Jonathan Grafft accepted the award on behalf of the organization.

The Community Theatre Award was one of eight Awards of Excellence presented this year to theatre professionals, educators and organizations from across Illinois. The awards recognize contributions in areas including leadership, artistry, education, mentorship and service.

Honorees are nominated by members of the Illinois theatre community and selected by the Illinois Theatre Association Board of Directors.

“Illinois theatre thrives because of the extraordinary people and organizations who dedicate their talent, creativity and leadership to making theatre possible in communities across our state,” ITA President Mark Begovich said. “These honorees represent the very best of what happens when we educate, mentor, create and collaborate.”

Richmond Hill Players was the organization selected for recognition in the Community Theatre division.

Other 2026 honorees represented high school, college and university, professional and youth theatre, along with individual awards recognizing service and mentorship.

The Illinois Theatre Association is a statewide organization serving people and organizations involved in youth, high school, college and university, community and professional theatre. Its work includes education, networking, collaboration and statewide programming.

More information about the Illinois Theatre Association and its programs is available through Illinois Theatre Association.